1994: Creation of Samsung Motors Inc.

The Samsung Group formed Samsung Motors Inc. (SMI) on the basis of a cooperation agreement with Nissan Motors.

1995-1996: Construction of the Busan plant

The site was built in line with Nissan's technological standards. Today Busan has a production capacity of 240,000 vehicles per year.

1998: Launch of the first vehicle, the SM5

At the same time, Korea faces an economic crisis. Samsung is contrived to seek a buyer.

2000: Creation of Renault Samsung Motors

Renault became the first European constructor to establish operations in South Korea. Renault held a 70% stake in the new company while the Samsung Group held 20% and its creditor banks held the remaining 10%. The activity is relaunched while RSM sells only 12,000 vehicles per year.

2002: Successful return under the Renault Samsung Motors brand

While the SM5 enjoys a growing success, the SM3 (inspired on Nissan Bluebird Sylhpy) is launched during that year.

2004: Launch of the SM7

The SM7 is spacious luxury sedan. Its design took inspiration in Nissan Teana.

2007: Launch of the QM5 cross-over in South Korea

Conceived and designed by Renault, developed by Nissan, the QM5 is manufactured by Renault Samsung Motors and marketed under the Samsung brand in South Korea. In the rest of the world, this vehicle has the name Renault Koleos. Besides, the SM5 and SM7 appear newly-redesigned.

2009: Event at the Seoul Motor Show

Renault Samsung Motors presents two vehicles: the first concept car fully created in the Kihueng center, eMX (for eco-motoring experience), and the New SM3 compact sedan, launched on the market in July 2009.


2010: Launch of the New SM5

A few days after its commercial launch in early 2010, New SM5 significantly exceeds sales targets with some 40,000 orders taken. A guarantee to remain the second most popular model in its segment (or even do better)!